Foods That Clean Arteries: Cleaning your arteries is crucial, as clogged arteries can significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Let's learn how to keep them clean.

How to clean your arteries?

How to Prevent Artery Blockage: Just as housecleaning is a part of our daily health, maintaining the health of our arteries is equally important, but people often neglect it. Clean and healthy arteries maintain smooth blood flow in the body and reduce the risk of serious diseases like heart attack and stroke. Just as the brain controls the entire body, arteries work to deliver oxygen-rich blood to every part of the body.

Dr. Sumit Kapadia, a vascular surgeon with over 18 years of experience, told TOI that making some small but appropriate lifestyle changes can help keep arteries healthy. He shared three natural and effective ways to protect heart health and keep arteries clear.

What happens when arteries become clogged?

When fat accumulates in the arteries, it's called plaque. It contains elements like cholesterol, fat, and calcium. In medical terms, this process is called atherosclerosis. This causes the arteries to narrow, reducing blood and oxygen flow. Chest pain may occur, and the heart has to work harder to pump blood.

Increase your intake of vitamin K2

According to Dr. Kapadia, vitamin K2 is essential for keeping arteries healthy. This vitamin activates proteins in the body that prevent calcium from accumulating in the wrong places. If there is a vitamin K2 deficiency, calcium begins to accumulate on the walls of the arteries, causing them to harden. Vitamin K2 is found in dairy products, egg yolks, fermented foods like natto and sauerkraut, and some other foods. Research shows that people who have adequate vitamin K2 in their diets have fewer heart problems.

Reduce refined carbohydrates

Another important step is reducing your intake of refined carbohydrates. White bread, sugary snacks, soft drinks, and processed foods may seem low in fat, but they increase inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels. The third, most important step is regular exercise. Walking, cycling, swimming, or strength training for at least 30 minutes a day improves blood circulation and strengthens the heart. Exercise also helps control blood pressure, maintain weight, and reduce plaque buildup.